Both dress their age and time. Nonna wishes to appear a correct lady–wool coat with fur collar, gloves, handbag in lap, sensible shoes, while her companion dresses for emancipated, desexulized “utility”–what she’s wearing could just as easily be worn by a guy.

The fact is, neither is particularly stylish, but both say volumes about fashion as a ritual of role-playing.

Absolutely LOVE this picture. It is a wonderful contrast between the “dolled up” lady and the relaxed youngster. The older ladies of Europe are so cute to watch they really keep their style up. I hope to keep my style and spirits up throughout life like they do! Bravo!

The visual comparison between the older and younger generation is striking. The elegant elderly woman is pulled together in a way that I hope hasn’t completely passed out of fashion altogether. Vintage style, for this reason, is my real inspiration.

another note on the contrast– both have their hands “folded” in their laps; but look at their legs. Nonna’s are crossed at the ankles- very proper. The young girl not only dresses like a boy, but she’s sitting like one, too.

I’m hoping beyond hope that the pendulum will swing back to the frame of mind that one doesn’t leave the house without some measure of elegance. The consensus here seems to agree, for the most part: younger generation often (not always) hasn’t a real clue about how to take good care of themselves and/or clothe themselves with care. Many compliments for Nonna, very few for her young companion.

But times change and so do we, for better or worse. Still, I’ve fantacized about citizens’ citations for bad taste. Wouldn’t it be funny?

I’m surprised nobody mentioned the possibility of socioeconomic differences at play here. The young girl probably can’t afford a fur trimmed coat. That’s not saying the old lady is rich but still, they have different priorities in life.